American Stroke Association’s CycleNation event empowers riders to be healthy while funding research to end stroke.
Dozens of employee teams from leading companies across Des Moines will ride to improve brain health for all and stop the cycle of stroke at Central Iowa CycleNation on Thursday, Oct. 5 at Cowles Commons in Des Moines.
CycleNation is a high-energy, outdoor, stationary cycling event. It empowers riders to strengthen the mind and body connection to personal health while funding vital research to eradicate stroke. Funds raised through CycleNation benefit the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all.
Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. According to the most recent CDC data, strokes accounted for 1,403 deaths in Iowa in 2021.
“CycleNation is more than a program – it’s an active movement empowering people to get their bodies and brains in gear through cycling,” said Zach Loy, vice president and general manager for Turner Construction Company’s Iowa Business Unit and co-chair of Central Iowa CycleNation. “This event allows people to get active in a fun, competitive, team environment while raising funds to help fight against stroke.”
In addition to the ride, participants will hear the stories of three local stroke survivors, have the chance to get their blood pressure checked and compete for awards ranging from best team spirit to furthest distance traveled. The event will also feature refreshments and outdoor activities. KCCI TV’s Scott Carpenter will serve as emcee.
“A stroke can happen to anyone at any point during their lifetime,” said Barry Determan, a construction executive for Turner Construction Company’s Iowa Business Unit and co-chair of Central Iowa CycleNation. “With the appropriate support for research, training, outreach and other key initiatives, we can positively impact outcomes for loved ones and future generations.”
To register and learn more, visit www.cyclenation.org/DSM.
Turner Construction Company is the signature sponsor of Central Iowa CycleNation. Other top sponsors include PDM Precast, Sonar Development Partners, KCL Engineering, Denovo Construction Solutions and UHY, LLC.
Central Iowa CycleNation is a signature event of the American Heart Association’s Heart Challenge program, which is designed to help companies positively impact employee overall health and wellbeing. The program is anchored in a series of customizable workplace events that inspires employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues and get in their physical activity.
The funds raised from Central Iowa CycleNation go towards research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, reducing barriers to health care access and quality. During the past 5 years, the American Heart Association has funded more than $12.9 million dollars on new research studies in the state of Iowa, including 67 studies at the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.
About the American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.
